Flat-head syndrome on the rise in Texas

Being from Texas I couldn’t resist this news bit: the number of infants born with “flat-head” syndrome has risen dramatically, by nine-fold, in the Lone Star State. The new study also says it’s probably nothing to worry about.

It seems that the increase in the numbers of cases of plagiocephaly is really due to better recording by hospitals and more aggressive care by parents. “I’m pretty confident that that the majority of what we’re seeing is due to the Texas birth defects registry picking up kids with plagiocephaly better over time,” said Dr. Peter Langlois of the Texas Department of State Health Services.

Two things jumped out at me: first, I’m so proud of my home state that the researchers didn’t immediately blame Oklahoma. Second, who has ever heard of this condition or knew that it should be treated? If one of my children had a flat spot on his head I would probably look at their father and blame him for some recessed gene he brought to the table. Instead, it’s best to see the pediatrician.

Parents with children who are diagnosed with plagiocephaly are usually advised to provide lots of tummy sleep time while supervised of course. Occasionally, in severe cases, a customized helmet can be made to help reshape the head through the early growth spurts.

It’s a common condition and not related to developmental issues.

Source: Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine, Reuters